The New England Patriots would like to find a way to ensure that Devin McCourty remains a member of the team.

The Patriots have had preliminary discussions with the safety, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, about a new deal, according to a source. The source added that nothing substantial has emerged from those talks.

While it remains to be seen if the two sides can reach a deal before McCourty’s rookie deal expires, it appears there is at interest in keeping the safety in New England beyond the 2014 season.

Originally a cornerback, McCourty has emerged as one of the better safeties in the NFL. With him roaming the deep third of the field, and with the help of improved cornerbacks, New England’s secondary allowed 239 passing yards per game last season, placing it 18th in the NFL.